The Agricultural and Neolithic Revolution

Vocabulary flashcards covering the Neolithic Revolution, the transition to systematic agriculture, early village life, and the progression into the Bronze and Iron Ages.

Neolithic Revolution

The period from $8000-4000$ B.C.E. following the last Ice Age, characterized by the shift from hunting and gathering to systematic agriculture.

Systematic agriculture

The keeping of animals and the growing of food on a regular basis, believed to be the most important development in human history.

Animal domestication

The taming of animals to be used for meat, wool, milk, and labor during the Neolithic Revolution.

Jericho

A Neolithic village located near the Dead Sea that was in existence by $8000$ B.C.E.

Catalhuyuk

A large Neolithic farming village in Southwest Asia covering $32$ acres, featuring mud brick houses where citizens entered through holes in rooftops.

Specialization of labor

A division of labor that emerged due to food surpluses, allowing individuals to become artisans and barter with other villages.

Artisans

Skilled workers who refined tools and created goods, emerging as a distinct group due to the division of labor.

Copper

The first metal used by artisans to create tools and weapons after $4000$ B.C.E.

Bronze

A metal created by combining copper and tin after $4000$ B.C.E., known for being stronger and more durable than copper.

Bronze Age

The historical period lasting from $3000-1200$ B.C.E. characterized by the widespread use of bronze.

Iron Age

The historical period that began after $1000$ B.C.E. following the Bronze Age.

Mesoamerica

One of the key regions, along with Europe, India, Egypt, and China, where Neolithic farming villages were located.